Judges 10 - 21
This book is like a merry go round! Same journey every time, different horse (translation: judge). It goes like this:
Israel does evil in the sight of the Lord. They are overcome by their enemies, God rescues them by raising up a judge. They live in peace until that judge dies.
But eventually, God reaches the end of His mighty rope. He's done. He tells them, "you've abandoned Me, serving other gods." (10:13) and announces that He's never going to rescue them again. He told them to cry out to their "gods" to rescue the, next time, in their hour of distress!
As a parent of a teenager, I can relate. "That's right, God! You tell 'em! They've turned their back on you one too many times! It's time to show them who's boss!"
But the Israelites pleaded.
"....and God was grieved by their misery." (10:16)
Again, I can relate.
The love of a parent is like no other. It doesn't matter how many times our children mess up. We always want to give them another chance. Another opportunity to change.
To obey.
To love.
So, God sends more judges and one of them is Samson.
"Hey, I know the story of Samson! Or at least a little something about him. He's the guy that grows his hair really long and gets his power from it, right?"
Kind of.
The "daily walk" bible describes his life "a study of unfulfilled potential."
How sad. God blesses Samson with superhuman strength and commissions him to rescue Israel from the Philistines, but Samson spends most of his life chasing his own passions - mostly women.
He ultimately ends up blind and in bondage. The bible says, "the Lord, had left him." (16:20)
Eventually, he comes to the place where he places full surrender of his life to God.
He prays, "Sovereign Lord, remember me again!" (16:28)
God, gives him one last portion of power and in his death Samson destroys more Philistines than during his entire life of compromise.
In the end, Samson embraced the power of love and rejected the love of power.
And once again, God proved to be faithful.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Mighty hero? Me?
Judges 6 - 13
True to it's name, I encountered many deliverers in this book. Deliverers that God called, "judges". I won't write about all of them but there were a few that stood out, mostly because their stories were fun to read!
Ehud - This guy was left handed, like me! He delivered tax money to King Eglon and one day he brought the king a secret message - a dagger to the belly! I especially found it amusing that God felt the need to mention that the king was so fat that Ehus lost his dagger!
Deborah - a great story! She believed God, NEVER doubting. She brought Israel to victory over Sisra, who had 900 chariots! Deborah, like Moses wrote a song for the Israelites so they would never forget all that God has done for them.
Those are just a two of the many judges that God used, but there is another man, one whose story reminds me that God always sees what we can become, not what we really are.
Gideon.
The angel refers to him as, "Mighty hero", when he first calls on him. He sure didn't think of himself that way. In fact, I think the last thing Gideon felt like was a mighty hero!
He reminded the Lord "my clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh, and I am the least in my entire family!" (6:15)
Now, I don't don't know if "least" means youngest, or smallest or even weakest but one thing is for sure...Gideon did not have the confidence to be "a mighty hero."
And isn't it just like God to use him anyway?
God's response to him was, "I will be with you." (vs 16)
The treasure I loved in this story was -- Gideon was not the obvious choice.
...or sincere if you will. Raw. Sometimes we need to tell God exactly how we feel. I think God appreciates that. I believe it brings us to a deeper level with Him. Gideon had NO problem doing that, "if God's with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all the miracles our ancestors told us about? The Lord has abandoned us." (6:13) Sarcasm much?
Finally believing that God is behind him, Gideon watches as God removes all of the props in which he might have trusted. His army was reduced from 32,000 to 300! His weapons were reduced to pitches, torches and trumpets and his strategy was but a single command, "Stand still!"
God's a pretty awesome multi-tasker. He was increasing Gideon's faith but at the same time, He also wanted to be sure that the Israelites couldn't boast, saying they saved themselves, by their own strength.
God saw the ending. He knew that Gideon would be a mighty hero. He also knew that Gideon would give all the glory to God.
Israel asked him to be their ruler. His response?
"The Lord will rule over you!" (8:23)
There was peace for 40 years - during the rest of Gideon's life.
I'm so glad that God loves us for who we are...but sees us for what we can be!
True to it's name, I encountered many deliverers in this book. Deliverers that God called, "judges". I won't write about all of them but there were a few that stood out, mostly because their stories were fun to read!
Ehud - This guy was left handed, like me! He delivered tax money to King Eglon and one day he brought the king a secret message - a dagger to the belly! I especially found it amusing that God felt the need to mention that the king was so fat that Ehus lost his dagger!
Deborah - a great story! She believed God, NEVER doubting. She brought Israel to victory over Sisra, who had 900 chariots! Deborah, like Moses wrote a song for the Israelites so they would never forget all that God has done for them.
Those are just a two of the many judges that God used, but there is another man, one whose story reminds me that God always sees what we can become, not what we really are.
Gideon.
The angel refers to him as, "Mighty hero", when he first calls on him. He sure didn't think of himself that way. In fact, I think the last thing Gideon felt like was a mighty hero!
He reminded the Lord "my clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh, and I am the least in my entire family!" (6:15)
Now, I don't don't know if "least" means youngest, or smallest or even weakest but one thing is for sure...Gideon did not have the confidence to be "a mighty hero."
And isn't it just like God to use him anyway?
God's response to him was, "I will be with you." (vs 16)
The treasure I loved in this story was -- Gideon was not the obvious choice.
He was cynical
...or sincere if you will. Raw. Sometimes we need to tell God exactly how we feel. I think God appreciates that. I believe it brings us to a deeper level with Him. Gideon had NO problem doing that, "if God's with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all the miracles our ancestors told us about? The Lord has abandoned us." (6:13) Sarcasm much?
He was skeptic
He needed a sign from God - not just once - but three times! He asked God, "please don't be angry with me but if you are truly going to use me...I need proof". (6:39) Fighting against the Midians could possibly mean life or death! He wanted to be absolutely sure that THIS WAS GOD!
He was scared
God asked him to tear down his father's alter that he had build for Baal, an idol. Although Gideon obeyed....he did it at night because "he was afraid of the other members of his father's household and the people of the town." (6:27)
Finally believing that God is behind him, Gideon watches as God removes all of the props in which he might have trusted. His army was reduced from 32,000 to 300! His weapons were reduced to pitches, torches and trumpets and his strategy was but a single command, "Stand still!"
God's a pretty awesome multi-tasker. He was increasing Gideon's faith but at the same time, He also wanted to be sure that the Israelites couldn't boast, saying they saved themselves, by their own strength.
God saw the ending. He knew that Gideon would be a mighty hero. He also knew that Gideon would give all the glory to God.
Israel asked him to be their ruler. His response?
"The Lord will rule over you!" (8:23)
There was peace for 40 years - during the rest of Gideon's life.
I'm so glad that God loves us for who we are...but sees us for what we can be!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
How's THAT workin' for ya?
Judges 1-5
"How quickly they turned away from the path of their ancestors, who had walked in obedience to the Lord's commands."
(2:17)
Disappointed, but not surprised. It was foretold, after all.
After Joshua died and another generation rose up, they began to forget what God had done for them. They chased other gods and abandoned their Lord.
Now, a lot of their problem goes way back to when God told their ancestors to drive everyone out of the land when they moved in and took over.
But they didn't.
They forced some of the Canaanites to work as slaves for them. Hmmm - pride, greed, power - I wonder...what was their driving force? All of the above, perhaps?
But THAT was the old generation. Now, the new generation has the Canaanites living in their land, among them. Their gods a constant temptation.
So, God began to do exactly as He promised. When they went into battle - He fought against them.
But even then, God was faithful - even when His people were not. He took pity on them. He began to rise up men and women to rescue them. Judges, to deliver them.
And so a cycle begins:
It's too bad Dr. Phil wasn't around back then. I'm sure he would have asked them - "How's that workin' for ya?"
"How quickly they turned away from the path of their ancestors, who had walked in obedience to the Lord's commands."
(2:17)
Disappointed, but not surprised. It was foretold, after all.
After Joshua died and another generation rose up, they began to forget what God had done for them. They chased other gods and abandoned their Lord.
Now, a lot of their problem goes way back to when God told their ancestors to drive everyone out of the land when they moved in and took over.
But they didn't.
They forced some of the Canaanites to work as slaves for them. Hmmm - pride, greed, power - I wonder...what was their driving force? All of the above, perhaps?
But THAT was the old generation. Now, the new generation has the Canaanites living in their land, among them. Their gods a constant temptation.
So, God began to do exactly as He promised. When they went into battle - He fought against them.
But even then, God was faithful - even when His people were not. He took pity on them. He began to rise up men and women to rescue them. Judges, to deliver them.
And so a cycle begins:
- The Israelites fall into sin, and usually begin worshipping other gods.
- God gets mad and hands them over to kings. They stay under that king's rule for years.
- Israel cries out to God after years of oppression.
- God sees their renewed commitment and rises up judges - someone to rescue them.
- There is peace. Sweet salvation.
But, you'd think they would have noticed a pattern after about, oh say, a couple of hundred years...wouldn't ya?
It's too bad Dr. Phil wasn't around back then. I'm sure he would have asked them - "How's that workin' for ya?" Tuesday, April 19, 2011
...the end of book six.
So, the trek is finally over.
I've been a Christian for a over 20 years and this was the first time I've read the entire journey of the Israelites from start to finish. Starting before they were delivered from slavery in Egypt until the moment they stepped foot into the promised land.
I began reading my bible because I was searching. I wanted to understand more about God's love.
I've heard it taught for years:
"God IS love!"
"God loves us so much!
"God promises this, and God promises that."
"He'll deliver you!"
But I just wasn't feeling it. Oh, I believed it. But feel it? Not so much.
Most days I felt like a disappointment, falling short of what He called me to be. "He loves me no matter what?"
We live in a world of conditional love. Our love is selfish, "what can they do for me?" It's based on feelings, hormones and past experiences.
Even though I've been taught (and have read scripture to confirm these truths) that His love is unconditional it's still sometimes hard to swallow.
I believed it with my mind.
But, being only familiar with worldly love, I just couldn't feel it with my heart.
It can be a difficult thing to align your heart with your mind.
So began my journey. I started at the beginning, the Old Testemant. I figured I'd have to drudge my way through --marching ahead with my eyes locked on the New Testament...bring on Jesus!! Jesus IS love!!!
But what God has taught me about Himself and His love through these first six books in my bible has knocked my socks off!! (in the wise words of my great friend JD)
In watching Him respond to the Israelites, He's displayed a love that truly IS unconditional.
Finally! I could relate to this love! The Israelites, they were JUST LIKE ME! They've behaved, in so many ways, the way I do!
They were selfish - I tend to think about what's best for me.
They doubted - Yup, got TONS of doubts.
They rebelled - I don't like anyone telling me what to do!
They complained - I like things to go a certain my...my way.
I'm sure I could go one, but I've pretty much convinced myself that I got it covered. I'm just like 'em.
So...I waited for God to cast them away. To turn His mighty back on them! Forget about them. Move on to "better people", people that will appreciate what He does for them.
People that will be, do, serve, love, exactly the way He wants them to. But is there such thing?
We ALL fall short.
When they complained, God gave them exactly what they wanted (remember the quail story? one of my favs) until they were sick of it!
Whey they doubted, God reminded them that it was HIS battle and encouraged them to have faith!
When they rebelled, He corrected them.
When they were captive - HE delivered them through mighty miracles.
What an A-HA moment! I feel so blessed to have found out the secret to why He loves us! Finally! The "reason" I've been searching for!
There is no reason.
It's really not as complicated as I try to make it.
I finally understand that He loves me because He has decided to.
...and certainly not because of anything I do or do not do.
He loves me because that's just who He is and no matter what I do, say, think, hear, or see - I can't escape His Love.
Nor do I want to.
I've been a Christian for a over 20 years and this was the first time I've read the entire journey of the Israelites from start to finish. Starting before they were delivered from slavery in Egypt until the moment they stepped foot into the promised land.
I began reading my bible because I was searching. I wanted to understand more about God's love.
I've heard it taught for years:
"God IS love!"
"God loves us so much!
"God promises this, and God promises that."
"He'll deliver you!"
But I just wasn't feeling it. Oh, I believed it. But feel it? Not so much.
Most days I felt like a disappointment, falling short of what He called me to be. "He loves me no matter what?"
We live in a world of conditional love. Our love is selfish, "what can they do for me?" It's based on feelings, hormones and past experiences.
Even though I've been taught (and have read scripture to confirm these truths) that His love is unconditional it's still sometimes hard to swallow.
I believed it with my mind.
But, being only familiar with worldly love, I just couldn't feel it with my heart.
It can be a difficult thing to align your heart with your mind.
So began my journey. I started at the beginning, the Old Testemant. I figured I'd have to drudge my way through --marching ahead with my eyes locked on the New Testament...bring on Jesus!! Jesus IS love!!!
But what God has taught me about Himself and His love through these first six books in my bible has knocked my socks off!! (in the wise words of my great friend JD)
In watching Him respond to the Israelites, He's displayed a love that truly IS unconditional.
Finally! I could relate to this love! The Israelites, they were JUST LIKE ME! They've behaved, in so many ways, the way I do!
They were selfish - I tend to think about what's best for me.
They doubted - Yup, got TONS of doubts.
They rebelled - I don't like anyone telling me what to do!
They complained - I like things to go a certain my...my way.
I'm sure I could go one, but I've pretty much convinced myself that I got it covered. I'm just like 'em.
So...I waited for God to cast them away. To turn His mighty back on them! Forget about them. Move on to "better people", people that will appreciate what He does for them.
People that will be, do, serve, love, exactly the way He wants them to. But is there such thing?
We ALL fall short.
When they complained, God gave them exactly what they wanted (remember the quail story? one of my favs) until they were sick of it!
Whey they doubted, God reminded them that it was HIS battle and encouraged them to have faith!
When they rebelled, He corrected them.
When they were captive - HE delivered them through mighty miracles.
What an A-HA moment! I feel so blessed to have found out the secret to why He loves us! Finally! The "reason" I've been searching for!
There is no reason.
I finally understand that He loves me because He has decided to.
...and certainly not because of anything I do or do not do.
He loves me because that's just who He is and no matter what I do, say, think, hear, or see - I can't escape His Love.
Nor do I want to.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
...and now the rest of the story.
Joshua 22-24
I'm so excited to move on! It's done! God kept his promise, the battle is over. Now what?
Before Joshua dies, he does as Moses did and speaks to the people one last time. He doesn't waste his last days with small talk, that's for sure!
He points out that they didn't deserve ANY of what they got - land they didn't work for, vineyards they didn't plant. He's also quick to warn them, one last time, "Honor God! Serve Him! Follow His commands!"
...and he's going to follow his own advise in vs 15:
"But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord."
The people agreed saying, "We would never forsake God! He's preserved us! We're determined."
So Joshua made a covenant between God and His people and for as long as those leaders that had personally experienced God's provision lived...Israel served the Lord.
I'm so excited to move on! It's done! God kept his promise, the battle is over. Now what?
Before Joshua dies, he does as Moses did and speaks to the people one last time. He doesn't waste his last days with small talk, that's for sure!
He points out that they didn't deserve ANY of what they got - land they didn't work for, vineyards they didn't plant. He's also quick to warn them, one last time, "Honor God! Serve Him! Follow His commands!"
...and he's going to follow his own advise in vs 15:
"But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord."
The people agreed saying, "We would never forsake God! He's preserved us! We're determined."
So Joshua made a covenant between God and His people and for as long as those leaders that had personally experienced God's provision lived...Israel served the Lord.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Manna vs honey. No brainer?
Joshua 21
A chapter of victory! Although most of the chapter is designated for "who got what land" there were a few concluding verses that could possibly be the most important verses of the first six books of the bible.
Verses 43-45 (in my words)
The Lord gave to Israel ALL the land He had promised their ancestors and they conquered and settled there. God gave them rest on every side, non of their enemies could stand against them. The Lord helped them conquer their enemies. ALL of the good promises CAME TRUE!
While I read these verses with my eyes - this is what I was reading with my heart:
The Lord gave to me ALL of the desires of my heart - love, acceptance, security, faith, grace, self-control, etc. God gave me rest, peace, and no matter what situation I found myself in -my enemies could not stand against me. The Lord helped me conquer my enemies - temptation, guilt, selfishness, shame, insecurity, laziness, the list goes on. ALL of the good promises CAME TRUE!
I, too, can live as victorious as the Israelites! I am saved, by the blood of Christ, that much is true. However, God wants me to live a life of victory! I can either stay back in the desert and eat manna (yuck) for the rest of my life or I can take a step of faith - cross over to the Jordan and eat *milk and honey! (*translation: cheesecake)
I am a child of the most high God and he's going to take care of me right where I am, every day. He's promised me that.
BUT:
I can stay comfortable, sporting my "never aging" sandals, enjoying the daily cloud of shade and warming fire at night. Yes, safe and sound in my own camp, with my own people, continually blocking the sound of God's voice telling me it's time to move on.
OR:
I can stand at the edge, expecting God to part the Jordan for me every day, so I can faithfully cross over on dry land and enjoy a feast! And not to forget, while I'm feasting there's rest on everyside! Life at it's best! Everything God intended for me! What an adventure!
Why would I want to "camp out" everynight when I can board a luxury cruise line?
That's what God wants to know....
A chapter of victory! Although most of the chapter is designated for "who got what land" there were a few concluding verses that could possibly be the most important verses of the first six books of the bible.
Verses 43-45 (in my words)
The Lord gave to Israel ALL the land He had promised their ancestors and they conquered and settled there. God gave them rest on every side, non of their enemies could stand against them. The Lord helped them conquer their enemies. ALL of the good promises CAME TRUE!
While I read these verses with my eyes - this is what I was reading with my heart:
The Lord gave to me ALL of the desires of my heart - love, acceptance, security, faith, grace, self-control, etc. God gave me rest, peace, and no matter what situation I found myself in -my enemies could not stand against me. The Lord helped me conquer my enemies - temptation, guilt, selfishness, shame, insecurity, laziness, the list goes on. ALL of the good promises CAME TRUE!
I, too, can live as victorious as the Israelites! I am saved, by the blood of Christ, that much is true. However, God wants me to live a life of victory! I can either stay back in the desert and eat manna (yuck) for the rest of my life or I can take a step of faith - cross over to the Jordan and eat *milk and honey! (*translation: cheesecake)
I am a child of the most high God and he's going to take care of me right where I am, every day. He's promised me that.
BUT:
I can stay comfortable, sporting my "never aging" sandals, enjoying the daily cloud of shade and warming fire at night. Yes, safe and sound in my own camp, with my own people, continually blocking the sound of God's voice telling me it's time to move on.
OR:
I can stand at the edge, expecting God to part the Jordan for me every day, so I can faithfully cross over on dry land and enjoy a feast! And not to forget, while I'm feasting there's rest on everyside! Life at it's best! Everything God intended for me! What an adventure!
Why would I want to "camp out" everynight when I can board a luxury cruise line?
That's what God wants to know....
Friday, April 15, 2011
What's YOUR story?
Joshua 14
(Verses 8-13)
I just had to make a special journal entry for this small passage of scripture.
I absolutely loved reading how Caleb boasted - in the Lord. He was so thankful that he was 85 years old and in as good shape as ever! He's even talking about "driving the Anakites out of their land"!
For some reason, it strikes me funny when "characters" in the bible say or do something that makes them more "human" - in my eyes. I truly believe the bible is the inspired word of God, the living word, and I fully trust that these people existed. They were real! But, I've been reading or hearing about these people and their stories since I was little and there are some cases that they almost become "fictional" to me.
That's why I appreciate hearing an old man bragging about being as strong as he was in his youth - that he can travel and fight as good as he did before! I just just see him kicking his leg up over a chair as he said it too, just in case they didn't believe him. Grampy used to do that...
There's a powerful message in his Caleb's testimony. At first he appears to be proud - a self-reliant soldier. Although he begins by saying what he had to "do" to maintain his health it quickly becomes apparent that he wasn't tooting his own horn. He said "for my part, I followed the Lord, my God, completely."
He was simply giving credit where credit was due! He continued by saying, "the Lord has kept me alive and well."
Indeed He did. Just as He had promised.
Caleb's testimony reminded me that when we are truly witnessing, we are not talking about ourselves, but about God.
God uses our stories, but all the glory is His! Amen!
(Verses 8-13)
I just had to make a special journal entry for this small passage of scripture.
I absolutely loved reading how Caleb boasted - in the Lord. He was so thankful that he was 85 years old and in as good shape as ever! He's even talking about "driving the Anakites out of their land"!
For some reason, it strikes me funny when "characters" in the bible say or do something that makes them more "human" - in my eyes. I truly believe the bible is the inspired word of God, the living word, and I fully trust that these people existed. They were real! But, I've been reading or hearing about these people and their stories since I was little and there are some cases that they almost become "fictional" to me.
That's why I appreciate hearing an old man bragging about being as strong as he was in his youth - that he can travel and fight as good as he did before! I just just see him kicking his leg up over a chair as he said it too, just in case they didn't believe him. Grampy used to do that...
There's a powerful message in his Caleb's testimony. At first he appears to be proud - a self-reliant soldier. Although he begins by saying what he had to "do" to maintain his health it quickly becomes apparent that he wasn't tooting his own horn. He said "for my part, I followed the Lord, my God, completely."
He was simply giving credit where credit was due! He continued by saying, "the Lord has kept me alive and well."
Indeed He did. Just as He had promised.
Caleb's testimony reminded me that when we are truly witnessing, we are not talking about ourselves, but about God.
God uses our stories, but all the glory is His! Amen!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Take a look in the mirror, girlfriend.
Joshua 4-13
More miracles! God parted the Jordan and His people (once again) walked on dry ground! Honestly, it's hard to believe that they are going to turn away from God again. It's just a matter of when.
As I was reading this passage, I'm embarrassed to admit that I wasn't exactly cheering for the Israelites. I was fist pumping God, excited that He showed his power again but I couldn't help but think, "They don't deserve all that God has done for them."
Wow. Self-righteous much?
But really, I couldn't help but think about how much God has done for the Israelites. I mean, He did A LOT! And it's not just what He's done for them, but how many times He's forgiven them!
And Moses has already prophesied that they are going to turn their backs on God again! "Why, those ungrateful, disobedient, sandal wearing, cloud following...."
Then the light bulb flickered.
How have I been any different? How many times have I expected God to give me HIS best, when I was so unwilling to give him MY best?
It's caused me to change the way I look at obedience. It's made me want to please God.
Even though I know that God knows my heart inside and out...there are times when I don't. I know my salvation is not about acts but I kind of like having a "tangible" way to show God that I love Him back.
Boy, it's real easy to see the faults in others, eh? Maybe I ought to take the plank out of my eye next time I look in the mirror.
More miracles! God parted the Jordan and His people (once again) walked on dry ground! Honestly, it's hard to believe that they are going to turn away from God again. It's just a matter of when.
As I was reading this passage, I'm embarrassed to admit that I wasn't exactly cheering for the Israelites. I was fist pumping God, excited that He showed his power again but I couldn't help but think, "They don't deserve all that God has done for them."
Wow. Self-righteous much?
But really, I couldn't help but think about how much God has done for the Israelites. I mean, He did A LOT! And it's not just what He's done for them, but how many times He's forgiven them!
And Moses has already prophesied that they are going to turn their backs on God again! "Why, those ungrateful, disobedient, sandal wearing, cloud following...."
Then the light bulb flickered.
How have I been any different? How many times have I expected God to give me HIS best, when I was so unwilling to give him MY best?
It's caused me to change the way I look at obedience. It's made me want to please God.
Even though I know that God knows my heart inside and out...there are times when I don't. I know my salvation is not about acts but I kind of like having a "tangible" way to show God that I love Him back.
Boy, it's real easy to see the faults in others, eh? Maybe I ought to take the plank out of my eye next time I look in the mirror.
Is seeing the ONLY way to believe?
Joshua 1-3
The book of Joshua was only 24 chapters so I read them over a couple of days. Most of the book is an account of the wars that were fought and what land was given to which tribe.
I found myself skimming through a lot of Joshua. However, when I went back to begin journaling what I had underlined, I realized there were quite a few things that touched my heart and lessons to be learned in this great book.
First, I loved the little "pep talk" God gave, directly, to Joshua. He tells him three times "be strong and courageous!" He also tells him not to be discouraged, or afraid, and to keep His laws. He promises to be with him just as He was with Moses!
"I will not fail you or abandon you." (1:5)
That must have meant a lot to Joshua because I'm sure he questioned his ability to follow in the steps of Moses.
The people even assured him that they would "do what he commanded and go where he sends them" and mimicked the words of their God - "be strong and courageous!"
I imagine people were tempted to "compare" Joshua's leadership to that of Moses. In fact, the bible records moments when they said to him, "the Lord instructed Moses...."
Joshua could have fallen into a trap of self doubt but instead he marched on knowing that God was with him and that he had a very specific purpose!
Both he and Moses had their own part to play and Joshua must have been able to recognize that. He understood that the nation's true leader was God and THAT never changed.
Only the instrument He used.
True to his word (was there any doubt?) God went ahead and showed them favor long before the Israelites took their first step into battle.
Joshua sent two spies into the promise land much the way Moses did, to "size up" the competition. However, this time...the outcome was very different. They ran into a prostitute and this is what she told them:
1. I know the Lord has given you this land.
2. We are all afraid. EVERYONE is living in terror.
3. We have heard the Lord has made a dry path for you.
4. Our hearts are melted in fear!
5. NO ONE has the courage to fight.
6. Your God, is the supreme God.
7. Jericho will be conquered.
Imagine!!! Knowing you are going to war and the opposition is scared to death of you! They do not have the courage to fight!
God HAS gone before you!
Just as God said, waaaaay back in Exodus, people are hearing the great things He has done for them!
In chapter 2 verse 24 the spies went back to the people and told them, "the Lord is going to give us the whole land for sure! All of the people in the land are terrified of our people!!"
Um, yeah. Hasn't God been telling them that all along?
Why is we have to see for ourselves or even hear it from someone else before we believe that what God says is true?
The book of Joshua was only 24 chapters so I read them over a couple of days. Most of the book is an account of the wars that were fought and what land was given to which tribe.
I found myself skimming through a lot of Joshua. However, when I went back to begin journaling what I had underlined, I realized there were quite a few things that touched my heart and lessons to be learned in this great book.
First, I loved the little "pep talk" God gave, directly, to Joshua. He tells him three times "be strong and courageous!" He also tells him not to be discouraged, or afraid, and to keep His laws. He promises to be with him just as He was with Moses!
"I will not fail you or abandon you." (1:5)
That must have meant a lot to Joshua because I'm sure he questioned his ability to follow in the steps of Moses.
The people even assured him that they would "do what he commanded and go where he sends them" and mimicked the words of their God - "be strong and courageous!"
I imagine people were tempted to "compare" Joshua's leadership to that of Moses. In fact, the bible records moments when they said to him, "the Lord instructed Moses...."
Joshua could have fallen into a trap of self doubt but instead he marched on knowing that God was with him and that he had a very specific purpose!
Both he and Moses had their own part to play and Joshua must have been able to recognize that. He understood that the nation's true leader was God and THAT never changed.
Only the instrument He used.
True to his word (was there any doubt?) God went ahead and showed them favor long before the Israelites took their first step into battle.
Joshua sent two spies into the promise land much the way Moses did, to "size up" the competition. However, this time...the outcome was very different. They ran into a prostitute and this is what she told them:
1. I know the Lord has given you this land.
2. We are all afraid. EVERYONE is living in terror.
3. We have heard the Lord has made a dry path for you.
4. Our hearts are melted in fear!
5. NO ONE has the courage to fight.
6. Your God, is the supreme God.
7. Jericho will be conquered.
Imagine!!! Knowing you are going to war and the opposition is scared to death of you! They do not have the courage to fight!
God HAS gone before you!
Just as God said, waaaaay back in Exodus, people are hearing the great things He has done for them!
In chapter 2 verse 24 the spies went back to the people and told them, "the Lord is going to give us the whole land for sure! All of the people in the land are terrified of our people!!"
Um, yeah. Hasn't God been telling them that all along?
Why is we have to see for ourselves or even hear it from someone else before we believe that what God says is true?
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
...the end of book five.
So it turns out I really enjoyed the book of Deuteronomy. It was basically a review of the first four books of the bible.
It gave me many glimpses of God's character and how faithful His love is - even when we are stubborn and rebellious. There were a lot of great verses in this book about fear and loving God.
Jesus himself quoted this book a few times during his ministry. When he was asked by the Pharisees what the greatest commandment was, He answered them:
I also loved one of the messages that Moses tried to get through to the Israelites in this chapter. He explained to them that God didn't chose them as a nation because they were a great people but simply because He loves them and because He made a promise to their ancestors.
It's that simple.
God keeps His promises. Love Him with all your heart, mind and soul.
Yes, Deuteronomy was a great book.
It gave me many glimpses of God's character and how faithful His love is - even when we are stubborn and rebellious. There were a lot of great verses in this book about fear and loving God.
Jesus himself quoted this book a few times during his ministry. When he was asked by the Pharisees what the greatest commandment was, He answered them:
I also loved one of the messages that Moses tried to get through to the Israelites in this chapter. He explained to them that God didn't chose them as a nation because they were a great people but simply because He loves them and because He made a promise to their ancestors.
It's that simple.
God keeps His promises. Love Him with all your heart, mind and soul.
Yes, Deuteronomy was a great book.
A legacy worth living for....
Deuteronomy 12 - 34
The finish line is just around the bend! I can see the end of this book as I round the corner!
Although there have been many truths and encouraging passages in this book, there has also been an awful lot of rules and regulations for a time period that is really hard for me to relate to.
I found myself "skimming" as I read about how the Israelites weren't supposed to plow with an ox and a donkey together, or wear clothes made of wool and linen woven together.
Seriously?
Are we supposed to apply these rules today? Do we ignore them? Simply dismiss them as they are for people "a long time ago in a land far away...."?
What was their purpose? How do we decide which rules do apply today?
So many questions...and like I mentioned earlier - it makes for a long read.
That's why I get so excited when a passage, or a promise, such as the following, comes along!
"Do not be afraid as you go out to fight today! Do not lose heart or panic. For the Lord, your God, is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies, and He will give you victory." (Chapter 20:3-4)
That, my readers, is a GREAT promise!
Moses is using the last days, weeks and months of his life to tell the Israelites over and over again, that God will either bless them greatly...or curse them greatly. It's their choice.
And just like we do as parents, he spends double time in warning mode - telling them in great detail of how they will be cursed.
He explains how easy it is and how it brings God great pleasure to bless them, if they only "love the Lord and keep His commands, laws and regulations by walking in His ways."
He reminds them that God's laws aren't secrets, or held in distant places but have been revealed in a very clear way.
He even writes a song for Israel to memorize! An easy way for them to remember his teachings! How funny is that? I used to do the same thing with my children when they were younger to help them study for tests!
Before He died, Moses made sure the people of Israel knew that Joshua was their new leader and a prophet. He wanted to be sure they knew they weren't going to be "shepherdless."
...and so ends the life of Moses. Just like that. I came to the paragraph and read of his death. Four verses.
Like a breath.
It reminded me that we are all the same. People will read of our death, in the paper - a couple of paragraphs (if we're lucky)....just like Moses.
Our life, like Moses', will be as a breath. A mere vapour in the big scheme of things.
Moses left a great legacy. He was a human instrument in the creation of the nation of Israel. He lead them our of slavery, unleashed the ten plaques against Egypt, he guided the freed slaves for 40 years, he carried down the law from Mount Sinai and he prepared God's people to enter the promised land.
But above all that, he was a man that loved and obeyed God.
I'm pretty sure I won't free a nation in my lifetime, (although that's for God to decide) but do pray that my legacy is that of Moses.
I want to be known as someone who loved and obeyed God.
...with ALL my heart.
The finish line is just around the bend! I can see the end of this book as I round the corner!
Although there have been many truths and encouraging passages in this book, there has also been an awful lot of rules and regulations for a time period that is really hard for me to relate to.
I found myself "skimming" as I read about how the Israelites weren't supposed to plow with an ox and a donkey together, or wear clothes made of wool and linen woven together.
Seriously?
Are we supposed to apply these rules today? Do we ignore them? Simply dismiss them as they are for people "a long time ago in a land far away...."?
What was their purpose? How do we decide which rules do apply today?
So many questions...and like I mentioned earlier - it makes for a long read.
That's why I get so excited when a passage, or a promise, such as the following, comes along!
"Do not be afraid as you go out to fight today! Do not lose heart or panic. For the Lord, your God, is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies, and He will give you victory." (Chapter 20:3-4)
That, my readers, is a GREAT promise!
Moses is using the last days, weeks and months of his life to tell the Israelites over and over again, that God will either bless them greatly...or curse them greatly. It's their choice.
And just like we do as parents, he spends double time in warning mode - telling them in great detail of how they will be cursed.
He explains how easy it is and how it brings God great pleasure to bless them, if they only "love the Lord and keep His commands, laws and regulations by walking in His ways."
He reminds them that God's laws aren't secrets, or held in distant places but have been revealed in a very clear way.
He even writes a song for Israel to memorize! An easy way for them to remember his teachings! How funny is that? I used to do the same thing with my children when they were younger to help them study for tests!
Before He died, Moses made sure the people of Israel knew that Joshua was their new leader and a prophet. He wanted to be sure they knew they weren't going to be "shepherdless."
...and so ends the life of Moses. Just like that. I came to the paragraph and read of his death. Four verses.
Like a breath.
It reminded me that we are all the same. People will read of our death, in the paper - a couple of paragraphs (if we're lucky)....just like Moses.
Our life, like Moses', will be as a breath. A mere vapour in the big scheme of things.
Moses left a great legacy. He was a human instrument in the creation of the nation of Israel. He lead them our of slavery, unleashed the ten plaques against Egypt, he guided the freed slaves for 40 years, he carried down the law from Mount Sinai and he prepared God's people to enter the promised land.
But above all that, he was a man that loved and obeyed God.
I'm pretty sure I won't free a nation in my lifetime, (although that's for God to decide) but do pray that my legacy is that of Moses.
I want to be known as someone who loved and obeyed God.
...with ALL my heart.
If the shoe fits (and doesn't blister my feet)....
Deuteronomy 5-11
After reviewing the commandments, (you'd think they would know them off by heart by now) Moses, again, stresses that they need to be careful and obey all of them. He repeats, "if you love God with all of your heart - God will greatly bless you."
If they don't - they will be destroyed just as their enemies have been.
So, he's reminded them of the commandments, but now he's about to give them a set of regulations that will teach them how to demonstrate their unique relationship with God.
He explains to them, for the upteenth time, that these laws are for their own good. To help them prosper.
He warns them never to foget that it was God that brought them to where they now are.
I needed that reminder, too. It easy to forget (or take for granted) that when my "land" is flowing with milk and honey and things are going great, that it was God that brought me there.
I was born in an absolutely, beautiful, free country - - that was God.
My amazing childhood, surrounded by family that loved me no matter what - - God too!
My loyal friends that are so much fun to hang out with and allow me to lean on when I need support - - God.
Two beautiful children that I was blessed beyond measure with - my heavenly father.
A partner to share life's valley's and mountains with, someone who has my back, no matter what -- God planned that one, as well.
A home, car, money to buy food, clothing and whatever might come along - all God!
I could keep going...
Often times, the journey is rough along the way.
For the Isrealites, they were slaves but God delivered them. They were hungry - God fed them manna.
They were thirsty and water flowed from a rock - coincidence? I think not...
Moses taught them that those circumstances, those times of trials, were allowed by God to humble them so they would never think it was on their own strength and engery that made them wealthy.
He also noted that even when God disciplined them, He did it to help them...as a parent loves their child.
I find myself rereading little details that could be easily missed. Small details that uncover God's great power! "Their clothes didn't wear and their feet didn't blister and swell during the 40 years they were in the dessert!"
...and I'm sure they appreciated it!
Oh! How He loves us!
After reviewing the commandments, (you'd think they would know them off by heart by now) Moses, again, stresses that they need to be careful and obey all of them. He repeats, "if you love God with all of your heart - God will greatly bless you."
If they don't - they will be destroyed just as their enemies have been.
So, he's reminded them of the commandments, but now he's about to give them a set of regulations that will teach them how to demonstrate their unique relationship with God.
He explains to them, for the upteenth time, that these laws are for their own good. To help them prosper.
He warns them never to foget that it was God that brought them to where they now are.
I needed that reminder, too. It easy to forget (or take for granted) that when my "land" is flowing with milk and honey and things are going great, that it was God that brought me there.
I was born in an absolutely, beautiful, free country - - that was God.
My amazing childhood, surrounded by family that loved me no matter what - - God too!
My loyal friends that are so much fun to hang out with and allow me to lean on when I need support - - God.
Two beautiful children that I was blessed beyond measure with - my heavenly father.
A partner to share life's valley's and mountains with, someone who has my back, no matter what -- God planned that one, as well.
A home, car, money to buy food, clothing and whatever might come along - all God!
I could keep going...
Often times, the journey is rough along the way.
For the Isrealites, they were slaves but God delivered them. They were hungry - God fed them manna.
They were thirsty and water flowed from a rock - coincidence? I think not...
Moses taught them that those circumstances, those times of trials, were allowed by God to humble them so they would never think it was on their own strength and engery that made them wealthy.
He also noted that even when God disciplined them, He did it to help them...as a parent loves their child.
I find myself rereading little details that could be easily missed. Small details that uncover God's great power! "Their clothes didn't wear and their feet didn't blister and swell during the 40 years they were in the dessert!"
...and I'm sure they appreciated it!
Oh! How He loves us!
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